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Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this dish is in the contrast of flavors and textures:
- Savory, salty ham provides a rich and hearty base.
- Fresh apple slices add a crisp, slightly tart sweetness that cuts through the meat’s richness.
- Honey mustard glaze brings it all together with a sticky, tangy finish that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.
It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting and elevated at the same time—perfect for holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, or any special Sunday dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 fully cooked, spiral-sliced ham (6–8 pounds)
- 2–3 crisp apples (like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady), thinly sliced
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Apple Slice-Stuffed Honey Mustard Ham
1. Preheat and Prep
2. Stuff the Ham
Carefully separate the slices of the ham and insert apple slices between every 2–3 slices. Don’t worry if they stick out a little—this gives the dish a beautiful presentation and helps the flavors infuse.
3. Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, both mustards, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Warm over medium heat until smooth and slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
4. Glaze and Bake
Brush the ham generously with the glaze, making sure it drips down between the apple slices. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1½ to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with more glaze.
5. Caramelize and Serve
For the last 10–15 minutes of baking, remove the foil and let the glaze caramelize in the oven. The top should become glossy and slightly sticky.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
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